U.S. patent application number 10/494233 was filed with the patent office on 2004-12-16 for television signal receiver system.
Invention is credited to Stewart, John Sidney.
Application Number | 20040252243 10/494233 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21743069 |
Filed Date | 2004-12-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040252243 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stewart, John Sidney |
December 16, 2004 |
Television signal receiver system
Abstract
A television signal receiving system is operative to optimally
tune to one or a plurality of television channels and provide one
or plurality of optimum television channel signals to one or a
plurality of television signal receivers. The television signal
receivers are operative to request a particular channel of a
television signal processor. The television signal processor is
coupled to an antenna array. Television signals from the antenna
array are processed in accordance with the principles of the
subject invention to provide optimum television channel signals.
The optimum television channel signals are demodulated then
remodulated before being distributed to the various television
signal receivers.
Inventors: |
Stewart, John Sidney;
(Indianapolis, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Joseph S Tripoli
Thomson Multimedia Licensing Inc
PO Box 5312
Princeton
NJ
08543-5312
US
|
Family ID: |
21743069 |
Appl. No.: |
10/494233 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
November 1, 2001 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US01/46355 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
348/725 ;
348/731; 348/E5.094; 348/E5.097; 348/E7.05; 725/68 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 5/44 20130101; H04N
21/4383 20130101; H04N 21/2143 20130101; H04N 21/6112 20130101;
H04N 7/106 20130101; H04N 21/436 20130101; H04N 21/4263 20130101;
H04N 5/50 20130101; H04N 5/40 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/725 ;
348/731; 725/068 |
International
Class: |
H04N 007/20; H04N
005/44; H04N 005/50 |
Claims
1. A method of processing a television signal comprising the steps
of: receiving a selected terrestrial television signal on a
plurality of antennas; converting said selected terrestrial
television signal received on each one of said plurality of
antennas into a digitized signal; summing said digitized signals
into an aggregate signal; demodulating said aggregate signal;
modulating said demodulated aggregate signal; and distributing said
modulated aggregate signal to a television signal receiver.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of receiving a
terrestrial television signal on a plurality of antennas includes
receiving a terrestrial television signal on a plurality of
uni-directional antennas.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of:
separately processing each one of said digitized signals before the
step of summing.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of separately processing
each one of said digitized signals includes adjusting the phase and
gain of each one of said digitized signals.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of demodulating said
aggregate signal includes utilizing a VSB demodulation scheme.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of modulating said
aggregate demodulated television signal includes utilizing a VSB
modulation scheme.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of distributing said
modulated aggregate signal to a television signal receiver includes
utilizing coaxial cable.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of receiving a selected
terrestrial television signal on a plurality of antennas includes
selecting said terrestrial television signal to receive.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein selecting said terrestrial
television signal to receive is accomplished by user selection.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein user selection is accomplished
via said television signal receiver.
11. An apparatus for processing a television signal comprising:
means for receiving a selected terrestrial television signal via a
plurality of antennas; means for converting said selected
terrestrial television signal received on each one of said
plurality of antennas into a digitized signal; means for summing
said digitized signals into an aggregate signal; means for
demodulating said aggregate signal; and means for modulating said
demodulated aggregate signal.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said means for receiving a
terrestrial television signal on a plurality of antennas includes
means for receiving a terrestrial television signal on a plurality
of uni-directional antennas.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising: means for
separately processing each one of said digitized signals before
said summing means.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said means for separately
processing each one of said digitized signals includes means for
adjusting the phase and gain of each one of said digitized
signals.
15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said means for demodulating
said aggregate signal utilizes a VSB demodulation scheme.
16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said means for modulating
said demodulated aggregate signal utilizes a VSB modulation
scheme.
17. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising means for
distributing said modulated aggregate signal to a television signal
receiver.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said means for distributing
said modulated aggregate signal to a television signal receiver
utilizes coaxial cable.
19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said means for receiving a
selected terrestrial television signal on a plurality of antennas
includes means for selecting said terrestrial television signal to
receive.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said means for selecting
said terrestrial television signal to receive includes means for
allowing user selection of said terrestrial television signal to
receive.
21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein said means for user
selection is accomplished via said television signal receiver.
22. An apparatus for processing a television signal comprising: a
plurality of tuners each of which is couplable to one antenna of an
antenna array and operative to receive a selected terrestrial
television channel signal from said one antenna; a converter in
communication with each one of said plurality of tuners and
operative to convert said selected terrestrial television channel
signal into a digitized television channel signal; a summer in
communication with each one of said converters and operative to
combine each digitized television channel signal to form an
aggregate television channel signal; a demodulator in communication
with said summer and operative to demodulate said aggregate
television channel signal; and a modulator in communication with
said demodulator and operative to modulate said demodulated
aggregate television channel signal.
23. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising: processing
circuitry disposed between and in communication with said converter
and said summer, said processing circuitry operative to digitally
process each one of said digitized television channel signals.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said processing circuitry
adjusts the phase and gain of each one of said digitized television
channel signals.
25. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein said demodulator utilizes a
VSB demodulation scheme.
26. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein said modulator utilizes a
VSB modulation scheme.
27. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising means for
distributing said modulated aggregate television channel signal to
a television signal receiver.
28. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising a selector
operative to select said terrestrial television channel signal to
receive.
29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said selector is operative
to allow a user to select said terrestrial television channel
signal to receive.
30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein selection by said user is
accomplished via said television signal receiver.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to the reception and
distribution of digital television signals and, more particularly,
to the reception, processing and distribution of terrestrially
broadcast television signals.
[0002] One manner in which television signals are currently
broadcast is over-the-air or terrestrially. This type of
transmission of television signals requires an antenna or aerial in
order to receive the television signals. The antenna is adapted to
receive television signals constituting a plurality of television
channels. Each broadcaster transmits or broadcasts a particular
television channel signal, with typically several television
broadcasters in an area. A television channel signal typically
includes audio and video information and may contain other data as
well.
[0003] Traditionally, such television broadcasts have been in
analog format (i.e. analog television signals). It is well known
that various problems exist and/or can occur with regard to the
reception of terrestrially broadcast analog television signals.
Furthermore, in the United States, the terrestrial or over-the-air
broadcasting of digital television signals is expected to become
more prevalent in the near future. Digital television signals pose
different problems than analog television signals in addition to
some of the same problems with regard to the reception of digital
television signals. One such reception problem manifests itself as
"ghosting." Other problems manifest themselves as just poor
reception. Poor reception can occur if the antenna is not
positioned in a proper orientation to receive certain television
channels.
[0004] Additionally, more and more households have more than one
television set and/or television signal receiver. Typically, each
television set and/or television signal receiver is not viewing the
same channel. Since an antenna needs to be positioned according to
an appropriate orientation in order to receive particular
television channels with minimal problems, it is not generally
possible to optimally receive multiple television channels.
[0005] Thus, in view of the above, it is desirable to provide a
television signal receiver and/or receiving system that can receive
a plurality of analog and/or digital television signals and provide
one or more optimum television signals (channels) to one or more
television sets or television signal receivers.
[0006] The phrase "television signal receiver" (TSR) as used herein
is intended to encompass any apparatus, with or without display,
capable of receiving television signals. For example, television
signal receivers include, but not limited to, television sets,
video tape recorders (VTR), set-top boxes, digital versatile disk
(DVD) recorders, and any combination thereof.
[0007] The subject invention is a system, method and apparatus for
receiving and distributing terrestrial television signals to one or
more television signal receivers. Particularly, the subject
invention is a television signal processing device that provides an
optimum television channel signal for one or more selected
terrestrial television channels from an antenna array. A
terrestrial television channel is preferably selected by a
television signal receiver in communication with the television
signal processor. The processing device obtains the optimum
television channel signal from a plurality of the received
terrestrial television channels. The processing device can also
provide multiple and different television channel signals.
[0008] In accordance with an aspect of the subject invention, there
is provided a method of processing a television signal. The method
includes the steps of: (a) receiving a selected terrestrial
television signal on a plurality of antennas; (b) converting the
selected terrestrial television signal received on each one of the
plurality of antennas into a digitized signal; (c) summing the
digitized signals into an aggregate signal; (d) demodulating the
aggregate signal; (e) modulating the demodulated aggregate signal;
and (f) distributing the modulated aggregate signal to a television
signal receiver.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the subject invention,
there is provided an apparatus for processing a television signal.
The apparatus includes means for receiving a selected terrestrial
television signal via a plurality of antennas, means for converting
the selected terrestrial television signal received on each one of
the plurality of antennas into a digitized signal, means for
summing the digitized signals into an aggregate signal, means for
demodulating the aggregate signal, and means for modulating the
demodulated aggregate signal.
[0010] In accordance with yet another aspect of the subject
invention, there is provided an apparatus for processing a
television signal. The apparatus includes a plurality of tuners
each of which is couplable to one antenna of an antenna array and
operative to receive a selected terrestrial television channel
signal, from the one antenna, a converter in communication with
each one of the plurality of tuners and operative to convert the
selected terrestrial television channel signal into a digitized
television channel signal, a summer in communication with each one
of the converters and operative to combine each digitized
television channel signal to form an aggregate television channel
signal, a demodulator in communication with the summer and
operative to demodulate the aggregate television channel signal,
and a modulator in communication with the demodulator and operative
to modulate the demodulated aggregate television channel
signal.
[0011] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of
this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more
apparent and the invention will be better understood by reference
to the following description of embodiment(s) of the invention
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a representation of an exemplary television signal
reception, processing, and distribution system in accordance with
the principles of the subject invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a representation of an exemplary television signal
reception, processing, and distribution system in accordance with
the principles of the subject invention;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a representation of an exemplary television signal
reception, processing, and distribution system in accordance with
the principles of the subject invention;
[0015] FIG. 4A is a high level block diagram representation of an
exemplary television signal receiver TSR) in accordance with the
principles of the subject invention;
[0016] FIG. 4B is a high level block diagram representation of an
exemplary television signal receiver in accordance with the
principles of the subject invention;
[0017] FIG. 4C is a high level block diagram representation of an
exemplary television signal receiver in accordance with the
principles of the subject invention;
[0018] FIG. 4D is a high level block diagram representation of an
exemplary television signal receiver in accordance with the
principles of the subject invention;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram representation of exemplary
components of the exemplary television signal receivers of FIGS.
4A-D;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a block diagram representation of an exemplary
television signal processor (TSP) in accordance with the principles
of the subject invention;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a more detailed block diagram representation of an
exemplary television signal processor in accordance with the
principles of the subject invention;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a block diagram representation of an exemplary
television signal receiving, processing, and distribution system in
accordance with the principles of the subject invention; and
[0023] FIG. 9 is a flow chart of an exemplary manner of operation
of the television receiving, processing, and distribution system
and/or its particular components thereof.
[0024] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the drawings.
[0025] Referring now to the drawings and, more particularly to FIG.
1, there is depicted an exemplary configuration of an exemplary
television signal receiving system, generally designated 10, in
accordance with the principles of the subject invention. The
television signal receiving system 10 includes an antenna
consisting of a plurality of antennas or an antenna array,
generally designated 12, and a television signal processor or
processing unit (TSP) 14 that is in communication with the antenna
array 12.
[0026] The antenna array 12 is operative to receive television
signals constituting various television channels. Hereinafter, the
term "television signal" will be considered synonymous with
"television channel" unless indicated to the contrary. In
particular, the antenna array 12 is operative to receive a
plurality of terrestrially broadcast television signals or
channels. The television signals may be analog, digital, and/or a
combination of analog and digital television signals. The antenna
array 12 is preferably composed of a plurality of separate antennas
each one of which is operative to receive the plurality of
television signals (channels). The frequency band or range of
coverage of each antenna of the antenna array 12 is preferably the
same. As well, each antenna is preferably a uni-directional
antenna. However, it should be appreciated that directional
antennas, or a combination of uni-directional and directional
antennas may be used to constitute the antenna array 12.
[0027] The television signal processor or processing unit (TSP) 14
is operative to receive all of the television signals received by
the antenna array 12 and process the television signals according
to the principles of the subject invention. Particularly, the TSP
14 is operative to receive all of the television signals received
by the antenna array 12, tune to one or more selected television
channels from or via the received television signals, digitize the
received television signals, provide any format conversion
necessary on the one or more selected television channels, obtain
an optimum television channel signal for each selected television
channel from the received television channels, and provide or
distribute the optimum television channel signal to a distribution
area 18. The distribution area includes one or more television
signal receivers (TSR) 20.
[0028] More particularly, the TSP 14 individually receives
television signals (constituting a plurality of television
channels) from each antenna of the antenna array 12. Each tuner or
tuning circuitry/logic is tuned to a particular television channel
(frequency or frequency band received by the respective antenna)
according to control signals received by the TSP 14. Each tuner of
the TSP 14 may be tuned to the same television channel.
Alternatively, some tuners may be tuned to the same television
channel while other tuners may be tuned to different television
channels. Alternatively, all tuners may be tuned to different
television channels. The number of tuners tuned to a particular
television channel is variable, depending on the number of
television channel requests. The number of television channels to
tune to is limited by the number of particular antennas in the
antenna array 12 (and thereafter by the number of TSRs).
[0029] After processing each (or the same) tuned television
channel, the television channel(s) signals are processed (e.g.
undergo format conversion if necessary, and otherwise digitize the
television signals). Television channel signals that are the same
are combined or summed to produce or generate an aggregate or
optimum television channel signal. Each optimum television channel
signal is further processed and provided to the TSRs. It should
thus be appreciated that the antenna array 12 is coupled to the TSP
14 such that the TSP 14 may separately tune each antenna or
television signal from each antenna to a particular television
channel. This may be accomplished for example, by having a separate
conductor for each antenna of the antenna array 12 between the
respective antenna and the TSP 14.
[0030] In one form, each optimum television channel signal is
further processed by first demodulating the optimum television
channel signal then remodulating the optimum channel signal before
distributing the optimum television channel signal to the
appropriate TSR. The optimum television channel signal may be
digitally encoded such as with Vestigial SideBand (VSB) or may be
analog encoded such as with National Television Standards Committee
(NTSC). Remodulation of the demodulated optimum television channel
signal is preferably performed using the original optimum
television channel signal modulation scheme, but may use any
modulation scheme appropriate for the intended use.
[0031] The TSP 14 is in communication with a signal
splitter/combiner 22 that is typically within the distribution area
18. The distribution area 18 includes one or a plurality of
television signal receivers (TSRs) represented by TSR #1 20a, TSR
#2 20b, TSR #3 20c through TSR #n 20n each of which is in
communication with the signal splitter/combiner 22. The
splitter/combiner 22 is operative to accept a plurality of
television channel signals from the TSP 14 and provide the
plurality of television channel signals to the plurality of TSRs
20a, 20b, and 20c through 20n. The splitter/combiner 22 is also
operative to accept return path signals from the plurality of TSRs
20a through 20n and provide the return path signals to the TSP 14.
The return path signals from the TSRs 20a through 20n provide
control data for the TSP 14. Further, the return path signals from
the TSRs 20a through 20n provide data regarding the particular TSR
generating or issuing a command and/or sending data. Thus the
splitter/combiner 22 is operative to allow bidirectional
communication between the TSP 14 and the plurality of TSRs 20a
through 20n.
[0032] The TSRs 20a through 20n may form part of the television
signal receiving system 10. AS such, each TSR is operative receive
television signals from the TSP 14 and utilize the received
television signals as per the particular TSR. Additionally, in
accordance with an aspect of the subject invention, each TSR 20a
through 20n is operative to tune to (select) a particular
television channel for use thereof (e.g. viewing on a display or
recording) and communicate the selected particular television
channel via return path signals to the TSP 14. In response thereto,
the TSP 14 processes those television signals corresponding to the
selected television channel. The TSP 14 then provides an optimum
television channel signal corresponding to the selected television
channel. In accordance with a further aspect of the subject
invention, each TSP 14 may be operative to select a particular
television channel for viewing but request that the selected
particular television channel be provided on a television channel
that is different than the selected particular television channel.
In essence, the TSR is operative to assign a selected television
channel to another television channel. The assignment is carried
out by the TSP 14 as described herein.
[0033] In FIG. 1, the television signal receiving system 10 is
arranged such that the antenna array 12 is exterior to the
structure or building (e.g. house) 16. In other words, the antenna
array 12 is outside. Again, the antenna array 12 may be formed of
different antenna, similar antenna, or any combination of antenna
all of which are designed to receive television signals. The TSP 14
is positioned preferably in close proximity to the antenna array 12
but external to the structure 16. Power for the TSP 14 may be
self-contained such as in the form of batteries, or may be supplied
via (supported by) the connection between the distribution area 18
and the TSP 14. The TSRs 20a through 20n represent components or
devices that are operative to utilize television signals. The
structure 16 may have only one TSR, two TSRs, or multiple TSRs,
although multiple TSRs are shown in FIG. 1. The TSRs are operative
to allow a user to select (or tune to) a particular television
channel or station through a remote control system (see FIG. 5)
and/or an OSD system (see FIG. 5), or the TSR may automatically
select or tune to a particular television channel. Additionally,
the TSR is operative to provide control (request) signals to the
TSP 14 such that the selected television channel is provided on a
channel that is different than the selected television channel.
Since each TSR is operative to perform channel assignment (or
re-assignment), the TSP 14 is operative to resolve any
discrepancies (i.e. where more than one TSR requests the same
channel re-assignment).
[0034] In FIG. 2, there is shown another embodiment of the
television signal receiving system 10. The television signal
receiving system 10 of FIG. 2 includes the antenna array 12, the
television signal processing unit 14, and at least one TSR 20. The
television signal receiving system 10 includes and/or performs the
same functions and/or features of the various components thereof in
like manner to the television signal receiving system 10 of FIG. 1.
However, in FIG. 2, the TSP 14 is located within the structure 16.
In this case the antenna array 12 may include a pre-amplifier (not
shown) configured to provide signal amplification for the
television signal received by each antenna of the antenna array
12.
[0035] In FIG. 3, there is shown another embodiment of the
television signal receiving system 10. The television signal
receiving system 10 of FIG. 3 includes the antenna array 12, the
television signal processing unit 14, and at least one TSR 20. The
television signal receiving system 10 includes and/or performs the
same functions and/or features of the various components thereof in
like manner to the television signal receiving system 10 of FIGS. 1
and 2. However, in FIG. 3, all of the components are located within
the structure 16. The antenna array 12 is preferably located in an
upper area of the structure 16 for best reception. The TSRs 20 may
be located anywhere within the structure 16. Additionally, it
should be appreciated that some or all of the TSRs do not need to
be internal to the structure 16. The TSRs 20a through 20n may be
located in any part of the structure 16. For example, if the
structure 16 was an apartment building, each TSR 20a through 20n
may be separate apartments.
[0036] FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate various exemplary television
signal receivers (TSRs), generally designated 20, that may be used
in the exemplary systems described herein in accordance with the
present principles. In FIG. 4A, the TSR 20 comprises a set-top box.
In FIG. 4B, the TSR 20 comprises a television set. In FIG. 4C, the
TSR 20 comprises a VCR, VTR, digital recorder, or the like. In FIG.
4D, the TSR 20 comprises a set-top box coupled to a television set.
Of course, it should be appreciated that various combinations of
TSRs are likewise contemplated, as well as other types of
television signal receivers.
[0037] The set-top box (FIG. 4A) is operative to receive television
signals from the TSP 14, process the received television signals,
and forward the received television signals to a display device or
other TSR, in addition to other typical functions and/or features
of a set-top box. The set-top box may be a cable television
receiver, a satellite receiver, or the like. In accordance with an
aspect of the subject invention, the set-top box is also operative
to generate or produce a request (control signal) for a particular
television channel and forward the request to the TSP 14. A user
may initiate the request for a particular television channel or the
set-top box may initiate the request. The user may initiate a
television channel request via a remote control system (see FIG. 5)
such as by using number buttons or channel up/down arrow buttons on
a remote control, or on-screen display (OSD) (see FIG. 5) typically
with the aid of a remote control. The TSR 20 may itself initiate
the request. The set-top box is also operative to provide a request
(control signal) for the selected television channel to be received
by the set-top box on a television channel that is different than
the selected television channel.
[0038] The television set (FIG. 4B) is operative in the same manner
as the set-top box of FIG. 4A. The television set, however,
includes an integral display for showing the video portion of the
television signals and typically an integral sound system
(speakers) for playing the audio portion of the television signals.
The television set may also include various features not typically
associated with a set-top box but which are either not necessary
for the subject invention or incidental thereto.
[0039] The VCR/VTR/Digital Recorder (FIG. 4C) is operative in the
same manner as the set-top box of FIG. 4A. The VCR/VTR/Digital
Recorder, however, may include various features not typically
associated with a set-top box but which are either not necessary
for the subject invention or are incidental thereto and thus not
shown or described.
[0040] The set-top box/television set combination (FIG. 4D)
utilizes the features and/or functions of both the set-top box and
the television set. In this case, either the set-top box or the
television set provides the control signals to the TSP 14 for
requesting a television channel and optionally being provided the
selected television channel on a television channel that is
different than the selected television channel.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 5, there is depicted a block diagram of
various components of a television signal receiver (TSR) 20. It
should be appreciated that the components shown in FIG. 5 are
exemplary of typically common components of a TSR. Some of the
components, however, may apply to only certain TSRs. The TSR 20
includes a processor, processing unit, or processor/processing unit
circultry/logic 30. The processor 30 controls the various
components and processes thereof of the TSR 20. The TSR 20 also
includes memory 32 of an appropriate kind (e.g. ROM, RAM, EPROM, or
the like) that is in communication with the processor 30. The
memory 32 stores program instructions that are utilized by the
processor 30 for operation of the TSR 20. An on-screen display
(OSD) unit or circultry/logic 36 is provided that is in
communication with the processor 30. The OSD 36 is operative under
control of the processor 30 to generate signals for providing
on-screen display of alphanumeric characters and the like. The OSD
36 is also operative to provide on-screen display of menus with
selectable menu items.
[0042] The TSR 20 may also include a display 34 that is in
communication with the processor 30 and the OSD 36. The display 34
is shown in dashed lines to represent that the display 34 may or
may not be integral with the TSR 20. The display 34 may be any kind
of display that is operative to show video television signals.
[0043] The TSR 20 further includes remote control circuitry/logic
38 that is in communication with the processor 30. The remote
control circuitry/logic 38 is operative to receive and process
remote control signals from a remote 40. The remote 40 includes
typical functions and/or features of a remote for a television
signal receiver. These functions and/or features are accessible by
buttons, keys, or the like on the remote, or are selectable
directly via buttons, keys, or the like. The remote 40 also
includes functions and/or feature specific to the particular
TSR.
[0044] The TSR 20 also has a communication portion 42 that is
operative to receive transmissions/signals from the TSP 14 and
provide transmissions/signals to the TSP 14. To this end, the
communication portion 42 includes communication circultry/logic 44
such as a modem or the like that is in communication with the
processor 30 of the TSR 20 and the TSP 14 via the splitter/combiner
22. The communication portion 42 also includes television signal
input processing circuitry/logic 46 that may include a tuner and/or
other television signal processing both for video and audio. Both
the communication circuitry/logic 44 and the television signal
input processing circuitry/logic 46 communicate with the TSP 14
using the same path. In one form, the path is a coaxial cable that
is operative to accept and transmit television signals and
communication signals.
[0045] The remote 40 and remote control circuitry/logic 38 allow a
user to select a particular television channel for viewing,
recording, or the like. The processor 30, in response to the user
selection of a television channel, provides selection, control, or
request signals via the communication circuitry/logic 44 to the TSP
14. The TSP 14, in response to the receipt of a channel selection
signal from the TSR 20, is operative to produce, generate and/or
obtain an optimum television channel signal corresponding to the
selected television channel from the television signals received by
the antenna array 12 in accordance with the present principles. The
TSP 14 is further operative to provide the optimum television
channel signal to the TSR 20. It should be appreciated that the
information/data may not come from a remote, but may come from a
television or other device coupled to the TSR 20. This would occur
through the communication circuitry/logic 44 that would be in
communication with the television or other device.
[0046] The TSR 20 is also operative to allow user selection of a
television viewing channel on which the selected television channel
should be broadcast. The television viewing channel is a television
channel that is different than the selected television channel. AS
examples of the above, if a user desires to watch channel 23,
channel 23 is selected as the television channel. A "channel 23"
signal is then sent to the TSP 14. The TSP 14 obtains and provides
an optimum channel 23 signal to the TSR 20. The user then views
channel 23 on channel 23. If a user desires to watch channel 23
programming, but wants to view channel 23 programming on channel
99, a "channel 23" signal is generated by the TSR 20 and forwarded
to the TSP 14 for obtaining an optimum channel 23 television
signal. In addition, a channel translation signal is also generated
to indicate to the TSP 14 that the optimum channel 23 signal is to
be provided on channel 99. The TSP 14, after obtaining the optimum
channel 23 signal translates the optimum channel 23 signal into a
channel 99 signal and transmits same to the TSR 20.
[0047] It should further be appreciated that each TSR is operative
in the manner set forth for the TSR 20 of FIG. 5. Thus, each TSR 20
is operative to allow selection of a television channel and provide
the selection to the TSP 14. Each TSR 20 is also operative to
assign a different channel number to the television channel
transmitted by the TSP 14. When assigned channel numbers conflict,
a first received priority may be utilized.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is depicted a block diagram
of an exemplary television signal processor (TSP) 14. The TSP 14 is
in communication with the antenna array 12 via a conductor 50 of n
number of separate conductors. In this manner each antenna of the
antenna array 12 is separately connected to the TSP 14. While this
is a straight forward manner of providing separate television
signals to the TSP 14, other manners of providing the television
signals from a plurality of antenna to the TSP 14 without using
separate conductors for each antenna are contemplated. One
alternative manner would be to actively multiplex the separate
television signals before being forwarded to the TSP 14. This would
require circuitry/logic at the antenna array 12 as well as at the
TSP 14.
[0049] The TSP 14 includes a plurality of tuners 52, a format
converter or format conversion circuitry/logic 56, signal
processing circuitry/logic 60, a demodulator or demodulation
circuitry/logic 64, and a remodulator or remodulation
circuitry/logic 68. The TSP 14 is in communication with
distribution area 18 via a conductor 70, operative to carrying
multiple television channel signals and communication signals, such
as coaxial (coax) cable. It should be appreciated that the TSP 14
is exemplary. Therefore, the various components may or may not
necessarily be essential to a TSP. Depending on intended use, TSPs
may differ in components.
[0050] Each antenna of the antenna array 12 is in communication
with (coupled to) one of the plurality of tuners 52. Thus, a
television signal comprising a number of television channels is
received by each antenna and forwarded to a separate tuner. Each
tuner of the plurality of tuners 52 is operative to tune to a
particular television channel of the received television signal.
The output of each tuner (a television channel) is input to format
conversion circuitry/logic 56. The format converter 56 is operative
to provide signal format conversion if necessary on each individual
television channel signal. Since each tuner output (television
channel) is a separate signal, an n-number conductor 54
(corresponding to the number of tuners) provides communication
between the plurality of tuners 52 and the format converter 56.
[0051] The format converter 56 is in communication with the signal
processor 60 via an n-number conductor 58. The signal processor 60
is operative to receive the various television channel signals and
produce, generate, or obtain an optimum television channel signal
for each television channel. The signal processor 60 is in
communication with the demodulator 64 via an n-number conductor 62.
Each optimum television channel signal is demodulated by the
demodulator 64 to obtain a demodulated optimum television channel
signal. The demodulator 64 is in communication with the remodulator
68 via an n-number conductor 66. Each demodulated optimum
television channel signal is then remodulated before distribution
via coaxial cable 70.
[0052] The demodulator 64 is operative to demodulate one or more
types of modulation schemes depending on the intended use of the
TSP. For instance, if the TSP is to receive only (terrestrial)
digital television signals from the antenna array 12, the TSP 14
demodulator may only demodulate VSB encoded television signals,
which is the current digital modulation scheme of choice for
terrestrial broadcast television signals. If the TSP 14 is to
receive only (terrestrial) analog television signals from the
antenna array 12, the TSP 14 demodulator may only demodulate NTSC
encoded television signals, which is the current analog
transmission standard for the United States. If the TSP 14 is to
receive both digital and analog television signals, the demodulator
64 demodulates both analog and digital television signals. The
modulation schemes may be different as VSB and NTSC are only
exemplary of modulation schemes.
[0053] The remodulator 68 is operative to modulate the demodulated
optimum television channel signals according to a particular output
format (modulation scheme) for the device or devices receiving the
distribution. The modulation scheme may be VSB for a digital device
or component, NTSC for an analog device or component, a combination
of a digital modulation scheme and an analog modulation scheme, or
another format. The demodulator 64 is in communication with the
remodulator 68 via an n-number conductor 66.
[0054] The TSP 14 is provided control or request signals from each
TSR 20 via the connecting conductor(s), preferably a coaxial cable
(coax 70). The TSP 14 is operative to receive the control or
request signals from each TSR 20 and uses the control signals to
obtain and/or generate television channel signals for the TSR
through television signals received by the antenna array 12 and the
components and/or circultry/logic of the TSP 14.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 7, there is depicted a detailed block
diagram of an exemplary TSP 14. The TSP 14 of FIG. 7 includes a
processor, processing unit, or the like (collectively, processor)
72 and memory 74 of an appropriate type that contains or stores
program instructions. The program instructions are utilized by the
processor 72 and optionally by the other components of the TSP 14.
The TSP 14 also includes communication circuitry/logic 76 such as a
modem or the like that is in communication with the processor 72
and coupled to the distribution conductor 70. The communications 76
provides bidirectional communication between the TSP 14 and the
TSRs 20. In this manner, the TSP 14 may receive control or request
signals from each TSR. The TSP 14 may also provide communication,
other than providing television channels, to the TSRs 20.
[0056] The TSP 14 of FIG. 7 also provides analog to digital (A/D)
format conversion (digitizing) as the format converter 56 for each
output of the plurality of tuners 52. The plurality of tuners 52 is
shown in communication with the A/D signal conversion 56 via an
n-number conductor or connector 54. Thus, after each tuner of the
plurality of tuners 52 has tuned to a television channel, each
tuned television channel signal is converted from the analog domain
to the digital domain by a respective A/D converter. Thereafter,
each tuned television channel signal undergoes signal processing by
the signal processing circuitry/logic 60. The A/D format conversion
56 is thus shown in communication with the signal processing 60 via
an n-number conductor, connector, or path 58. In the TSP 14 of FIG.
7, such signal processing includes signal phase and gain
adjustment, and signal summation. This is accomplished for each set
of television channel signals that constitute the same television
channel. Particularly, the signal processing 60 separately adjusts
the phase and gain of each set of television channel signals, a set
of television channel signals consisting of all television channel
signals that are the same television channel, and sums the set of
television channel signals to provide an optimum or aggregate
television channel signal for each set of television channel
signals.
[0057] The signal processor 60 is shown as in communication with
the demodulation circuitry/logic 64 via an n-number conductor,
connector, or path 62. Each optimum television channel signal is
outputted to the demodulator 64. The demodulator 64 demodulates
each optimum television channel signal from the signal processor
60. The demodulator 64 is operative to demodulate one or more types
of modulation schemes such as VSB (digital), and NTSC (analog)
according to the modulation scheme of the original television
channel signal (i.e. the terrestrially broadcast television
channel).
[0058] The demodulator 64 is shown in communication with the
remodulation circuitry/logic 68 via an n-number conductor,
connector, or path 66. Each demodulated optimum television channel
signal is thus provided to the remodulation circuitry/logic 68. The
remodulation circuitry/logic 68 includes a remodulator 78 and a
frequency allocator (television channel/frequency selector) 80.
Each demodulated optimum television channel signal is remodulated
according to a particular digital or analog modulation scheme (e.g.
VSB, NTSC, etc.) by the remodulator 78. A remodulated optimum
television channel signal may be provided as an output of the TSP
14 on a television channel that is different than the original
television channel provided the different television channel does
not conflict with another remodulated optimum television channel
signal. The frequency allocator 80 translates the channel (carrier
frequency or frequency band) to a different channel if requested by
the TSR 20. Each remodulated optimum television channel signal is
then provided for distribution 18 preferably via a single conductor
capable of carrying various signals within a frequency range such
as coax.
[0059] The processor 72, under control by program instructions
stored in the memory 74, provides control signals to the various
circuitry/logic of the TSP 14 as represented by the arrows
originating from the processor 72 and oriented toward (pointing to)
particular circultry/logic. Thus, the processor 72 is in
communication with the plurality of tuners 52 via a control line
82. The processor 72 provides a control signal to each tuner of the
plurality of tuners 52 such that each tuner is caused to tune to
particular television channel. If the processor 72 receives only
one request or control signal from a TSR 20, all of the plurality
of tuners will be tuned to the same television channel.
Consequently, the TSP 14 will only provide one optimum television
channel signal as an output. If two or more control signals or
requests are received by the TSP 14 from two or more TSRs 20, the
TSP must determine what combination of antenna of the plurality of
antenna will provide the two or more best combined signals for the
two or more optimum television channel signals provided as outputs
of the TSP 14. The determination of the best combination of
antennas based on various factors or characteristics of a
particular television channel for a particular antenna of the
plurality of antenna 12. Such various factors or characteristics
may include signal strength, signal continuity, and the like.
[0060] The processor 72 is also in communication with the formation
conversion circuitry/logic 56 via a control line 84. The processor
72 provides control signals to the conversion circuitry/logic 56 as
necessary to complete any necessary signal conversion. The
processor 72 is further in communication with the phase and gain,
and summer signal processing 60 via a control line 86. The
processor 72 provides control signals to the signal processing 60
as appropriate. The processor 72 is still further in communication
with the demodulation 64 via a control line 88. The processor 72
provides control signals to the demodulator 64 as necessary, such
as to apply the correct demodulation scheme to the various optimum
television channel signals. Still further, the processor 72 is in
communication with the remodulation 68 via a control line 90. The
processor 72 provides control signals to the remodulator 68 as
necessary, such as to apply the correct modulation scheme to the
various demodulated optimum television channel signals before
distribution thereof.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 8, there is depicted a block diagram of an
exemplary embodiment of a TSP 14. The antenna array 12 is shown
having any number of separate antennas, represented by the labeled
antenna #1 through antenna #n. Each antenna is coupled to a tuner
of the plurality of tuners 52, represented by the labeled tuner #1
through tuner #n. Particularly, the number of individual tuners of
the plurality of tuners 52 is the same number as the number of
antennas or television signals inputs. In this manner, each antenna
receives a separate television signal and each separate television
signal it tuned by a respective tuner to a particular television
channel. The output of each tuner is separately format converted
(here converted from an analog format to a digital format),
represented by the plurality of A/D converters, labeled A/D #1
through A/D #n.
[0062] The output of each A/D converter is in communication with
each phase and gain adjuster and summer (P&GA&S),
represented by the P&GA&S #1 through P&GA&S #n of
the plurality of phase and gain adjustment and summers 60. This is
represented in FIG. 8 as an output arrow labeled "#1 to #n" from
each separate AND of the format converter 56, and as an input arrow
labeled "#1 to #n" into each separate P&GA&S of the signal
processor 64. While each A/D output is in communication with each
P&GA&S, the output signal of each A/D (a television
channel) is controlled such that only television channel signals of
the same television channel are presented to a particular
P&GA&S.
[0063] For example, if the tuners #1, #4, and #n are tuning into
channel 92 and tuners #2, and #3 are tuning into channel 65, the
output signals of A/Ds #1, #4, and #n are provided to one of the
P&GA&S, say P&GA&S #1, while the output signals of
A/Ds #2 and #3 are provided to another one of the P&GA&S,
say P&GA&S #2. The three television channel signals (for
channel 92) are all phase and gain aligned, then summed to obtain
an optimum television channel signal for channel 92. The two
television channel signals (for channel 65) are all phase and gain
aligned, then summed to obtain an optimum television channel signal
for channel 65. Each P&GA&S thus provides phase and gain
aligning and summation to a one set of television channel signals
(i.e. any number of television channel signals of a particular
channel). The TSP 14 may process from only one television channel
to up to "n" number of television channels. In the case of one
television channel being requested by a TSR 20, all of the
television channel signals from each tuner #1 through #n are phase
and gain adjusted and summed in one P&GA&S. In the case of
"n" number of television channels requested by "n" number of TSRs,
individual television channel signals are used to provide the
optimum television channel signal.
[0064] The processor 72 is operative to select the antenna
providing a particular television channel to optimize the optimum
television channel signal. Thus, in the typical case where two or
more television channels are requested by two or more TSRs 20, the
signals from certain antennas are selected to make up the set of
television channel signals that provide the optimum television
channel signal for each selected television channel.
[0065] The output of each P&GA&S (an optimum television
channel signal) is demodulated by an individual demodulator,
represented by DeMods #1 through #n. The respective demodulator is
operative to demodulate the optimum television channel signal.
[0066] Lastly, each demodulated optimum television channel signal
is remodulated (modulated) via a respective remodulation unit,
labeled ReMod #1 through #n before distribution. The remodulation
may be the same modulation as demodulated or may be another
modulation scheme. The modulation scheme preferably is chosen to
accommodate the format of an output device such as a display.
Thereafter, a remodulated optimum television channel signal is
provided for distribution.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 9, there is depicted a flow chart of an
exemplary manner of operation of the television signal receiver
system 10 and its various components and/or subsystems thereof,
that is supplemental or in addition to the various manners of
operation described herein. The flow chart of FIG. 9 is generally
designated 100. In step 102, a plurality of television signals are
received. In particular, each antenna of a plurality of antennas
receives television signals. The television signals comprise a
plurality of television channels. Typically, the television signals
are terrestrially broadcast.
[0068] In step 104, a tuner individually tunes the television
signal from each antenna to a selected television channel. A
television signal receiver provides the selection of a television
channel. In step 106, each tuned television channel signal is
converted from analog to digital (digitized). Thereafter, in step
108, television channel signals that are the same are combined
(i.e. the same television channel) to form a set of television
channel signals (an aggregate or combined signal for each different
channel). In step 110 the phase and gain of each set of television
channel signals are adjusted to provide an optimum television
signal for each set of television channel signals.
[0069] Each optimum television signal is demodulated in step 112.
In step 114, each demodulated television channel signal is
remodulated. Remodulation is preferably via the same modulation as
the original television signals. Thereafter, in step 116, the
remodulated television channels signals are provided to a or a
plurality of TSRs.
[0070] It should be appreciated that the subject invention can be
modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This
application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, of
adaptations of the subject invention using its general principles.
Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from
the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice
in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within
the limits of the appended claims.
* * * * *